How oral bacteria affect gut health in diabetes and gum disease

Oral to Gut Microbiome Transmission in Periodontitis and Type 2 Diabetes

NIH-funded research State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-10849621

This study is looking at how gum disease and Type 2 Diabetes are connected by exploring how bacteria from your mouth can affect your gut health, and it’s inviting patients with these conditions to share samples to help find better ways to manage both issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Amherst, United States)
Project IDNIH-10849621 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between periodontitis, a severe gum disease, and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) by examining how bacteria from the mouth can influence the gut microbiome. The study aims to understand the mechanisms through which oral dysbiosis, or an imbalance of oral bacteria, may contribute to metabolic issues associated with diabetes. By analyzing the interactions between these two conditions, the research seeks to uncover potential pathways that could lead to improved management of T2D and periodontitis. Patients with these conditions may provide samples to help identify how oral health impacts overall metabolic health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with both periodontitis and Type 2 Diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have periodontitis or Type 2 Diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing Type 2 Diabetes and periodontitis by targeting the oral-gut microbiome connection.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the relationship between oral health and systemic diseases, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Amherst, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.